English Derby first prize is cut by £50,000 for 2026 renewal
TOWCESTER, which has been granted rights to stage the English Greyhound Derby once again in 2026, has announced that the winner's prize is to be reduced by £50,000.
The greyhound operation at the Northamptonshire venue will transfer to Orchestrate Ltd from current promoter Kevin Boothby after the meeting on Thursday 20th November with the new operator joining with long-time Derby sponsor Star Sports to back the Classic again next year.
However, the first prize has been announced as £125,000, down from the £175,000 won by Droopys Plunge this year, with Towcester chairman Mike Davis telling the Racing Post: “We have decided to bring the prize-money level in line with the Irish Derby, although the value of the English Derby will still be more.
"Hosting the Derby does not produce as much income as initially perceived; this reduction is a reflection of that and the costs of running the competition.”
Davis added: “After taking over the promotion of the Derby and hospitality of the venue just weeks before the start of the competition, we put on a show to remember
“Now with time on our side, we can look forward to building on that success and giving our spectators another memorable Derby experience while ensuring the greyhounds who race here receive the very best care and attention.”
The GBGB has announced a review of the 2026 competition after it concludes in June and will then seek further expressions of interest in hosting the Derby.
Jonathan Kay